15 days after the surgery, why is my nipple scabbing and peeling off? My surgeon said it's normal

Question

I just started putting vaseline on the scar and it seem like the vaseline is making them peel more. Now i have red wounds around the areola. My surgeon said its normal but I feel like I won’t have a nipple after all of this.

Stephen T. Greenberg, MD, FACS · Answer

hi and congratulations on your recent procedure! Without photos it is hard to determine the reason or diagnose the issue. Sometimes scabbing can occur by the incision. Although nipple necrosis is rare, it is a risk associated with breast reductions. I recommend following up with your surgeon on a regular basis so he/she can address your concerns.

Nirmal Nathan, MD · Answer

Dear teeteeton,Nipple loss is a rare but possible complication after breast reduction surgery. Sometimes your nipple will become swollen and inflamed, but that does not mean the nipple is sloughing. Follow-up with your plastic surgeon, who should be able to guide you.Good luck,Nirmal R. Nathan, M.D.
  
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
  Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
  Real Self Hall of Fame

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear teeteeton,
I understand your concern but peeling can occur after surgery. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Thank you for your question.
It sounds normal. Hard to say without a photo or in person evaluation. Schedule an appointment with  your surgeon to have your breasts looked at. Best wishes!

Matthew A. DelMauro, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question. What you're describing could be caused by a number of things. So it's difficult to know what's going on without seeing a photograph or examining you in person. If you're concerned about the appearance of your nipple/areola (which I suspect you are), you should follow up with your plastic surgeon. Best of luck!
Matthew A. DelMauro, M.D.

Jeffrey C. Hamm, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
Crusting and scabbing may be a sign of insufficient blood supply to the nipple....or could simply represent superficial epidermal peeling. Photographs would be helpful. 
If you are concerned about the appearance of the nipple, it may be wise to revisit your surgeon to ensure a satisfactory recovery from surgery and to ease your mind.
Best wishes...

15 days after the surgery, why is my nipple scabbing and peeling off? My surgeon said it's normal

Answers (6)

More Breast Reduction Questions

Why are areolas always made circular in breast reductions?

Would a third breast reduction be an option or too risky? Still different size and still not 34B after re-reduction. (photos)

Do breasts with dense tissue sag less easily?

What are these folds by my boobs 2 weeks post-op? Do they need corrected? Will I need a revision? (photos)

Is a reduction from H to D with a history of keloid scarring a realistic surgery for me?

Do you think I am botched? I'm 7 months post op from breast reduction and one breast is higher and smaller. (photos)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS